Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) Projects
Access Control
Open Access
Embargo Period
5-21-2014
Degree Program
Doctor of Nursing Practice
Degree Track
Family Nurse Practioner
Year Degree Awarded
2014
Month Degree Awarded
May
Keywords
Computed tomography, radiation exposure, reducing radiation levels, automatic exposure control
Advisor
Regina Kowal
DNP Project Chair
Regina Kowal
DNP Project Member Name
Jean DeMartinis
DNP Project Outside Member Name
Elizabeth Kelliher
Abstract
In an effort to reduce radiation exposure from computed tomography (CT), practitioners and facilities need to monitor radiation exposure while delivering high-quality diagnostic exams. Computed tomography scanners have a range of pre-programmed protocols for different examination types, with set values for tube potential, tube current, and rotation time (American Association of Physicists in Medicine, 2007). One way to minimize a patient’s exposure to radiation from CT is the use of an automatic exposure control (AEC) device. Current research is focusing on these devices and their actual benefits to patients. To assess the effectiveness of such a device, analysis of radiation doses per CT exam must occur. Machine-specific dose-length product (DLP) and or CT dose index (CTDI) are the only indicators of specific dose levels. This project compares current levels of radiation exposure to patients undergoing CT scans of the head, versus the national levels as evaluated by the Nationwide Evaluation of X-ray Trends (NEXT) program.
Key words: Computed tomography, radiation exposure, reducing radiation, monitoring radiation levels, automatic exposure control.
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